Bharatmala Pariyojana: Transforming India’s Highway Infrastructure
Introduction
Launched in 2017, Bharatmala Pariyojana is a revolutionary infrastructure project by the Government of India aimed at overhauling the nation’s highway network. Spanning 34,800 kilometers and connecting over 580+ districts, this initiative adopts a corridor-based approach, focusing on building extensive routes that integrate major economic centers, industrial hubs, and remote areas. The primary goals of Bharatmala Pariyojana are to reduce travel times, enhance logistics efficiency, and spur economic growth by improving the national highway network’s accessibility and functionality.
Key Components of Bharatmala Pariyojana
1. Economic Corridors
This component involves the development of 9,000 km of economic corridors designed to link significant industrial and commercial centers.
- Example: The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is a key part of this network, which will drastically cut travel time between these major economic hubs, thereby boosting trade and economic activity in both regions.
2. Inter-Corridors and Feeder Roads
Spanning 6,000 km, these roads connect the primary economic corridors with production and consumption centers, ensuring seamless regional connectivity.
- Example: The Eastern Peripheral Expressway links Delhi’s industrial zones to surrounding areas, easing traffic congestion in the capital and improving access to nearby regions.
3. National Corridor Efficiency Improvement
This initiative aims to upgrade 5,000 km of existing national corridors to enhance their capacity and efficiency.
- Example: Enhancements on NH-44, a major north-south corridor, include widening and modernizing roads, which will improve travel times and connectivity across key states.
4. Border and International Connectivity Roads
With 2,000 km dedicated to enhancing connections with neighboring countries, this component promotes trade and tourism.
- Example: The Jogbani-Biratnagar Road, which connects India with Nepal, is vital for facilitating smoother cross-border trade and strengthening regional economic ties.
5. Coastal and Port Connectivity Roads
This 2,000 km network focuses on linking major ports and coastal areas with inland regions to streamline goods movement.
- Example: Upgrades to the Mumbai-Goa Highway will enhance port access and support maritime trade, contributing to the economic growth of coastal regions.
6. Expressways
Development of 800 km of high-speed expressways aims to create efficient, access-controlled travel routes.
- Example: The Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway is an important project under this component, set to significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity between these major cities.
7. Greenfield Access-Controlled Corridors
This includes the creation of over 9,100 km of new expressways and access-controlled corridors designed to reduce congestion and provide high-speed links between major cities.
- Example: The Delhi-Vadodara Greenfield Expressway will offer a rapid connection between Delhi and Gujarat, bypassing congested areas to enhance travel efficiency.
The Vision Behind Bharatmala Pariyojana
Bharatmala Pariyojana is not just about road construction; it’s about creating a seamless and efficient transportation network that supports India’s economic and social development. The vision of this project includes:
- Creating a Comprehensive Highway Network: Linking various regions to ensure smooth and efficient connectivity across the country.
- Optimizing Existing Routes: Improving travel speeds and reducing congestion through upgraded infrastructure.
- Enhancing Transportation Efficiency: Facilitating better movement of goods and people to support economic activities.
- Promoting Economic Growth: Improving regional accessibility and supporting overall development.
- Strengthening Connectivity: Boosting trade and connectivity with neighboring countries and coastal regions.
Major Projects Under Bharatmala Pariyojana
- Delhi-Mumbai Expressway
This flagship project is set to drastically cut travel time between Delhi and Mumbai. By providing a faster route, it will enhance trade and commerce between these two major cities, making transportation more efficient and boosting regional economic activities.
- Amritsar-Bhatinda-Jamnagar Corridor
Currently in advanced stages of construction, this corridor will connect Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat. It is expected to play a crucial role in improving regional connectivity and fostering economic growth in these areas.
- Ambala-Kotputli Corridor
Opened in August 2022, this corridor enhances the connection between Haryana and Rajasthan. It is designed to promote regional development and economic growth by providing a more direct route between these two states.
Technological Advancements in Highway Development
Bharatmala Pariyojana employs advanced technologies like automatic traffic surveys and satellite mapping. These tools help identify upgrade needs and optimize route alignments, ensuring efficient planning and execution of infrastructure projects. ;
Mobility Vision
The initiative aims for an integrated multimodal infrastructure to reduce logistics costs and improve the efficiency of freight and passenger movement. Plans include developing Multimodal Logistics Parks at 35 locations and passenger intermodal stations in Varanasi, Nagpur, and Katra.
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